Energy Future Coalition

We tend to think of climate change as something that takes place gradually, over centuries, allowing societies to adapt to changes in weather patterns and temperature.  However, a study by the National Academies show that global warming, combined with other human alterations of the climate system, may increase the likelihood of fast, unexpected (and possibly irreversible) climate changes on either a regional or global scale. 

As the planet's climate is being forced to change—as is currently the case—it increases the number of possible mechanisms that can trigger abrupt climate change events.  And the more rapidly the forced change takes place, the more likely it is that abrupt and dangerous events will occur on a time scale that has immediate consequences for life on earth.

There are a number of proactive steps we can take that would be beneficial, regardless of whether or not abrupt climate change occurs.  These steps include slowing global warming by reducing greenhouse gas emissions, improving climate forecasting, slowing the loss of biodiversity, improving water, land and air quality, and continuing research into mechanisms that lead to sudden climate change.  Learn more about what you can do to slow global warming and reduce the likelihood of abrupt climate change.